This course is part of the BMG Federation Summer School Weekend and is open to all abilities, from beginners with a sound basic knowledge of the instrument as well as more experienced players of any banjo, as long as the instrument is played with the fingers (rather than picks or plectrum). Basic notation and chord reading will be required; help can be provided with different reading abilities. We’ll use standard notation and chord symbols; music will have different difficulty levels. We will concentrate on improving confidence, technique, rhythm and tone. There will be opportunities to share challenges and discuss how to deal with them, and where we can explore our approach to practice, learning and playing. Ensemble playing and accompaniment will be covered to encourage engagement with different musical styles, other instruments and musical formats. Music will be provided, but students are welcome to bring along pieces they can already play or that they’re currently working on.